
Route Overview
Where is the Camino Finisterre?
The Camino Finisterre (also known as the Camino de Finisterre or the Way to the End of the World) is a unique pilgrimage route in the Galicia region of Spain. Unlike other Camino routes that lead to Santiago de Compostela, this trail begins in Santiago and extends westward to the coastal town of Finisterre (Fisterra in Galician), located on Spain’s dramatic Atlantic coast. The route continues from Finisterre northward to Muxía, completing a journey of approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles). This ancient path follows in the footsteps of medieval pilgrims who, after reaching Santiago, continued to what they believed was the edge of the known world.
Why should you walk the Camino Finisterre?
Many pilgrims choose to walk the Camino Finisterre as a continuation or conclusion of their Camino journey. This route offers a unique reversal of the traditional pilgrimage, rather than walking toward a destination, you’re walking toward the ocean, toward the setting sun, and symbolically toward the end of the world as medieval Europeans understood it.
The Camino Finisterre provides an opportunity for reflection and closure after the often-busy experience of arriving in Santiago de Compostela. It’s a quieter, more contemplative journey that allows pilgrims to process their Camino experience. The trail offers spectacular coastal scenery, with dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean, rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and traditional Galician fishing villages.
Many pilgrims also walk this route to participate in the ancient ritual of burning something from their journey at the lighthouse at Cape Finisterre, a symbolic gesture of transformation and letting go. The route to Muxía holds spiritual significance as well, with its sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin Mary and its legendary stones that are said to possess healing properties.
The Camino Finisterre also gives you the opportunity to experience authentic Galician coastal culture, sample incredible seafood fresh from the Atlantic, and witness some of the most spectacular sunsets in Europe from the westernmost point of continental Spain.

When is the best time to walk the Camino Finisterre?
The Camino Finisterre, like the rest of Galicia, experiences a maritime climate with mild temperatures year-round but significant rainfall. The most popular time to walk this route is between April and October when the weather is generally warmer and the days are longer.
The peak season occurs during summer months (July-August), when you’ll encounter more pilgrims and warmer temperatures. However, this is also when you’ll find the most services available and the liveliest atmosphere in the coastal towns.
If you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind cooler, potentially wetter weather, the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October offer their own rewards. Spring brings wildflowers blooming along the coastal path and fewer pilgrims, while autumn offers dramatic Atlantic storms (viewed safely from shore), changing colors in the countryside, and a more introspective atmosphere.
Winter walking is possible but can be challenging due to shorter daylight hours, rougher seas, and reduced services. However, it offers the most solitude and can be deeply rewarding for experienced walkers who are properly prepared.
How long does it take to hike the Camino Finisterre?
The Camino Finisterre from Santiago de Compostela to Finisterre is approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles) and can typically be completed in 4-7 days of walking. If you continue from Finisterre to Muxía, add an additional day or two, depending on whether you walk the coastal route or take the inland path.
At Hillwalk Tours, we understand that everyone walks at their own pace and has different amounts of time available. We offer flexible itineraries that allow you to customize your journey based on your fitness level, time constraints, and personal preferences.
For most trails we typically offer Gentle, Moderate and Challenging tour grading levels depending on the balance of physical challenge and comfort level that you require. With the Camino Finistere we have a single seven day moderate itinerary.
Tour Route
Types of Trails
Choosing the right hiking tour for you can be, at times, tricky. It is always important to consider your own physical capability and comfort levels.
For example, at Hillwalk Tours, we have grouped each trail route we offer into three categories depending on personal preference and fitness levels. These are – Gentle, Moderate, and Challenging. Each of these categories, depending on the destination, will include anything from 4 to 13-day itineraries, with customers given the option to add rest days where they see fit.
Our Gentle hikes are perfectly suited for those who would consider themselves as a part-time hiker. This would be for those enjoy taking photos and meeting locals while taking in the spectacular scenery. Our Moderate hikes will suit people who are used to regular exercise and appreciate the opportunity of covering plenty of ground each day without going beyond their limits. Finally, our Challenging hikes are for hikers who look to set off early in the morning and not stop until they have reached their destination.
With regards to our Camino Finistere trail, we offer a single 7-day Moderate hikes, covering 15-21.5 km or 9.5-21.5 miles and between 4-7 hours per day.
Hillwalk Tours Guide Notes
If you decide to walk the trail with Hillwalk Tours, you will receive a detailed walking pack once you have fully booked your hiking holiday. This walking pack will include detailed Ordnance Survey (OS) maps and unique route notes and walking directions written and constantly updated by our route development team. By personally walking each trail and creating our own detailed route notes, it allows us to provide more itineraries, route options and alternatives than what you will typically find across generic guidebooks. It also includes GPS tracks meaning you will never have to worry about getting lost.
Alternatively, serveral off-the-shelf guidebooks covering the Camino Finisterre can be found.
Starting and Finishing Point
The Camino Finisterre traditionally begins at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela and ends at the lighthouse (Faro de Finisterre) at Cape Finisterre. Many pilgrims then continue to the coastal town of Muxía, which can be reached either by walking the coastal route or returning through the inland path.
Santiago de Compostela is a UNESCO World Heritage city with excellent transport connections, including an international airport, train station, and bus terminal. This makes it easy to begin your journey. Finisterre and Mux ía are smaller coastal towns but both have regular bus services connecting them back to Santiago de Compostela and other major cities.
Public transport is readily available at all points on the Camino Finisterre. Regular buses connect Santiago, Finisterre, and Muxía, making it easy to plan your journey or adjust your route as needed. In areas where bus service is limited, taxis are generally available.
Sample Camino Finisterre Itineraries
The following are examples of Hillwalk Tours Gentle, Moderate and Challenging itineraries of hiking the last and most popular section of the Camino Finisterre.
Moderate 7-Day
Day 1: Arrival in Santiago de Compostela
Day 2: Santiago de Compostela – Negreira (13.5 Miles / 21.5 Km)
Day 3: Negreira – Santa Mariña (13 Miles / 21 Km)
Day 4: Santa Mariña – Hospital (11 Miles / 18 Km)
Day 5: Hospital – Cee (9.5 Miles / 15 Km)
Day 6: Cee – Finisterre (10 Miles / 16 Km)
Day 7: Departure from Muxía
Currency and Expenses
The currency used along the Camino Finisterre, as in the rest of Spain, is the Euro (€).
The cost of food, drinks, and activities while walking the Camino Finisterre can vary depending on factors such as location, time of year, and personal preferences.
Dining out along the Camino offers a range of options, from budget-friendly pilgrim menus to more upscale dining experiences. A typical pilgrim menu, which includes a starter, main course, dessert, and often wine or water, generally costs between €10 and €15. Mid-range restaurant meals can range from €15 to €30 per person, excluding drinks. If you opt for finer dining, prices will be higher. Beverages such as a glass of wine or a beer usually cost between €2 and €5, though prices may be slightly higher in larger cities or popular tourist areas.
The Camino Finisterre offers various experiences including visiting the iconic lighthouse at Cape Finisterre, exploring the Sanctuary of Virxe da Barca in Muxía, and relaxing on pristine beaches. Most natural attractions are free, though some museums or guided tours may have entrance fees. Costs for these activities are generally modest, and prices may be slightly higher during peak summer months compared to the quieter seasons.
Camino Finisterre Accommodation and Services
Hotels and Guesthouses
Hotels and guesthouses are available in larger towns along the Camino Finisterre, particularly in Santiago de Compostela, Negreira, Finisterre, and Muxía. These establishments provide comfortable rooms, often with private bathrooms, and various amenities. Coastal locations may offer rooms with ocean views.
Albergues (Pilgrim Hostels)
Albergues are available along the Camino Finisterre, though they are less numerous than on the Camino Finisterre. They range from municipal albergues to private facilities. Albergues typically provide dormitory-style sleeping arrangements, shared bathrooms, and communal areas. Some offer meals or kitchen facilities. Booking ahead is recommended, especially during summer months.
Bed & Breakfasts (Casas Rurales)
Casas rurales and B&Bs offer comfortable lodging with breakfast included, providing a welcoming atmosphere with personalized hospitality. These are particularly common in the rural areas between Santiago and Finisterre.
Camping and Glamping
There are a few campsites along the Camino Finisterre, particularly near coastal areas. Wild camping is generally not permitted, but designated camping areas exist. Glamping options are limited but growing, particularly near Finisterre and Muxía.
Airbnb and Self-Catering
Airbnb offers various accommodations along the Camino Finisterre, from private rooms to entire apartments, particularly in larger towns. Self-catering options provide flexibility for meal preparation.
Shops and Grocery Stores
Towns along the Camino Finisterre have shops and markets where you can buy food and essentials. Santiago de Compostela has supermarkets and extensive shopping, while smaller villages may have limited supplies. Finisterre and Muxía have adequate provisions but it’s advisable to carry water and snacks between towns.
ATMs
ATMs are available in Santiago de Compostela, Negreira, Finisterre, and Muxía. However, in smaller villages between these points, access may be limited. It’s recommended to withdraw sufficient cash in larger towns. Some establishments in coastal areas may only accept cash, so plan accordingly.
Camino Finisterre Trail Etiquette
The Camino Finisterre passes through rural Galician communities and natural coastal environments. Local residents take great pride in their heritage and in preserving these beautiful landscapes. Respecting the trail and practicing responsible tourism are essential.
Pilgrims are encouraged to follow proper trail etiquette and embrace the principles of the Leave No Trace organization. This includes avoiding littering and carrying out all waste until it can be properly disposed of. Given the coastal nature of much of this route, be particularly mindful not to leave any waste on beaches or near the ocean.
The tradition of burning items at the Finisterre lighthouse has become controversial due to environmental concerns and fire safety. If you wish to participate in this ritual, do so only in designated areas if available, and never burn synthetic materials. Many pilgrims now choose alternative symbolic rituals that don’t impact the environment.
Additionally, respect local customs, keep noise levels down, and be considerate of fellow walkers. Treat accommodations, villages, beaches, and natural spaces with care to help sustain the spirit of the Camino Finisterre.
Hillwalk Tours Camino Finisterre Map
Camino Finisterre Terrain
Waymarking
The Camino Finisterre is generally well waymarked with the traditional yellow arrows and scallop shell symbols that mark all Camino routes. However, waymarking can be less frequent than on the Camino Finisterre , particularly in more remote rural areas and along coastal sections.
Look for yellow arrows painted on rocks, trees, walls, and roads, as well as cement markers with the scallop shell symbol and yellow arrow. Occasional stone markers also indicate the distance remaining to Finisterre.
If you are ever in doubt, you can check the Hillwalk Tours turn-by-turn directions and route notes including GPS coordinates provided in your walking pack. We also supply all you need to know about local information and history as you pass, along with trail alternatives and other activities.
Difficulty
The Camino Finisterre is considered to be a moderate to challenging hike. While there are no extreme mountain passes like the Pyrenees crossing on the Camino Finisterre, the route does include several significant climbs and descents, particularly on the first day leaving Santiago and in the sections approaching the coast.
The terrain varies from paved roads and forest paths to coastal trails and occasional beach walking. Weather conditions, particularly wind and rain along the exposed coastal sections, can add to the challenge. As with all our trails, we have created custom itineraries at Gentle, Moderate, and Challenging levels to suit different fitness levels and preferences.
Sights & Attractions
Santiago De Compostela
The Camino Finisterre begins at the Cathedral of Santiago, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Europe and the resting place of Saint James. The cathedral’s towers rise above the old city in the Praza do Obradoiro where buskers echo through the arcades. Santiago is rich in history with medieval streets, old monasteries and lively squares filled with music and food. Before departing on the journey to Finisterre, many pilgrims attend the Pilgrim Mass and witness the unique Botafumeiro, a giant incense burner on ropes pulled by 8 men. The city offers a perfect place to rest and reflect before beginning the walk to the Atlantic coast.

Ponte Maceira
Early on the trail, pilgrims pass through Ponte Maceira, a picturesque medieval village with a beautiful stone bridge spanning the Río Tambre. The bridge and riverside setting create one of the most photographed spots on the entire route, offering a peaceful place to rest by the water before continuing on to Negreira.

Negreira
Negreira is a traditional Galician town that serves as the first major stop on the Camino Finisterre. The historic center includes the Pazo do Cotón and the Church of San Xulián, providing a taste of authentic rural Galician life.

Cee
As the trail reaches the sea, Cee appears along a sheltered estuary backed by wooded hills. This marks the transition from inland walking to the Atlantic coast. The harbour, waterfront cafés and fishing heritage bring a distinctly maritime character to the Camino.

Cape Finisterre Lighthouse
The symbolic end of the route stands on dramatic cliffs above the Atlantic Ocean. Known in Roman times as Finis Terrae, the End of the World, the lighthouse marks a place of ancient belief and pilgrimage. Watching the sun sink into the ocean here is one of the most memorable moments of the entire Camino experience.

Praia de Langosteira
A stunning 2.5km beach near Finisterre, often overlooked by pilgrims rushing to the lighthouse. It’s one of Galicia’s most beautiful beaches.
Hospital
A tiny hamlet between Negreira and Olveiroa with traditional hórreos (grain stores) and stone houses, gives a glimpse of rural Galician life that’s rapidly disappearing.
Monte Aro
The high point of the route with sweeping views over the Atlantic and the Costa da Morte. Often foggy, which adds to the atmosphere.
Sanctuary of Virxe da Barca (Muxía)
The Sanctuary of Virxe da Barca in Muxía is built on rocks jutting into the Atlantic. According to legend, the Virgin Mary arrived here in a stone boat to encourage St. James in his preaching. The sanctuary contains several sacred stones including the Pedra de Abalar, a rocking stone, and the Pedra dos Cadris, the stone of the kidneys, which are said to possess healing properties. Many pilgrims choose to continue from Finisterre to Muxía to complete their journey at this quieter but equally powerful spiritual destination on the Costa da Morte.

Wildlife
The Camino Finisterre passes through diverse habitats including forests, agricultural land, and coastal ecosystems. Along the coastal sections, you may spot various seabirds including gulls, cormorants, and occasionally gannets. The Atlantic waters are home to dolphins and occasionally whales, though sightings are not guaranteed.
The inland sections support typical Galician wildlife including foxes, rabbits, and various small mammals. Birdwatchers may spot birds of prey such as kestrels and buzzards. The coastal areas are particularly rich in marine life, and the rock pools along the shore reveal crabs, sea anemones and other intertidal creatures.
Flora along the route includes Galician oak forests, eucalyptus plantations, coastal scrubland, and the distinctive vegetation of the Atlantic coast including heather, gorse, and various wildflowers that bloom throughout spring and summer.

History of the Camino Finisterre
The Camino Finisterre follows an ancient route that predates Christianity. In pre-Roman times, this journey to the westernmost point of the known world held spiritual significance for Celtic peoples who believed the setting sun represented the passage into the afterlife.
With the arrival of Christianity, the route took on new meaning. Medieval pilgrims who had completed their journey to Santiago de Compostela often continued west to Finisterre to witness the sunset over the Atlantic—symbolizing the end of their earthly pilgrimage and their spiritual journey. The name “Finisterre” comes from the Latin “finis terrae,” meaning “end of the earth.”
The tradition of collecting scallop shells from the beaches at Finisterre as proof of completion dates back centuries. These shells became the universal symbol of the Camino de Santiago. Pilgrims would also traditionally burn their clothes or boots at the lighthouse as a symbol of spiritual renewal and transformation, though this practice is now discouraged due to environmental concerns.
The coastal town of Muxía holds particular significance in the legend of St. James. According to tradition, when St. James was preaching in Spain and becoming discouraged, the Virgin Mary appeared to him here, arriving in a stone boat (the remains of which are said to be the rocks around the sanctuary) to encourage him in his mission.
During the medieval period, the route to Finisterre was well-established and documented by pilgrims’ accounts. However, it fell into relative obscurity during the centuries when the overall Camino pilgrimage declined. In recent decades, as interest in the Camino de Santiago has resurged, the route to Finisterre has been revived and has become increasingly popular as either a continuation of the main Camino or as a standalone journey.
Did you know?
The Camino Finisterre is sometimes called a “reverse Camino” because instead of walking toward a sacred destination, pilgrims are walking away from Santiago and toward the ocean—a journey that symbolizes introspection, completion, and transformation.
The Coast of Death (Costa da Morte) gets its name from the numerous shipwrecks that have occurred along this treacherous coastline over the centuries. The powerful Atlantic storms and rocky shores made this one of the most dangerous coastlines in Europe for sailors.
Unlike the Camino to Santiago, there is no official Compostela certificate for completing the Camino Finisterre. However, a “Fisterrana” certificate can be obtained at the tourism office in Finisterre, and a “Muxiana” certificate in Muxía.
The People & Local Customs
The people along the Camino Finisterre are known for their hospitality and their deep connection to the sea and the land. The traditional Galician greeting “Buen Camino” is exchanged among pilgrims, fostering camaraderie even on this quieter route.
Coastal communities maintain strong fishing traditions, and you’ll often see fishermen working with nets, boats, and the day’s catch. Local markets in towns like Finisterre and Muxía showcase fresh seafood and traditional Galician products.
Galician culture is distinct within Spain, with its own language (Galego), musical traditions including the gaita (Galician bagpipes), and unique cultural celebrations. Many villages celebrate their patron saints with festivals (festas) that include processions, music, and traditional food.
The maritime culture is evident everywhere along the coast. Respect for the ocean and its power is deeply ingrained in local customs. Locals often have stories of the sea, and fishing remains a vital part of the coastal economy and identity.
The culture of the Camino Finisterre is shaped by its sense of continuation rather than arrival. Traditionally walked after reaching Santiago, the route carries a more reflective atmosphere with fewer crowds and a strong connection to rural Galician life. Fishing and farming communities maintain long-standing traditions tied to land and sea, while the Galician language, local music and simple cuisine give the journey a distinct regional character. Along the way, pilgrimage blends naturally with everyday life, reinforcing the Camino’s role as a lived tradition rather than a ceremonial endpoint.
Herbal liqueurs such as licor café and orujo are typical of the region. In rural communities, the traditional queimada ritual combines local spirits with sugar and citrus, accompanied by spoken incantations rooted in Galician folklore. The flames and chants are meant to ward off evil spirits and witches, creating a powerful connection to Galicia’s Celtic past that continues in villages along the route.
The Costa da Morte has long been known as a region where folk magic and ancient beliefs persist beneath the surface of Catholic tradition. Local meigas, or wise women, were historically consulted for healing remedies, love charms and protection against misfortune, and their knowledge of herbs and ritual continues in some rural communities. Stones with natural holes, called pedras furadas, are believed to possess protective powers, while certain springs and wells are still visited for their supposed curative properties. The boundary between the spiritual and the everyday remains thin here, where the wild Atlantic, dense fog and isolated villages have preserved beliefs that date back long before Christianity arrived on these shores.
Camino FInisterre Customs
Many pilgrims who walk to Finisterre collect stones along the way to leave at the lighthouse as a symbolic offering, creating cairns that mark the completion of their journey. The traditional practice of burning clothing or boots at Cape Finisterre, once a powerful ritual of transformation and letting go, is now officially prohibited due to environmental concerns, though the symbolism remains deeply meaningful to many. At Muxía, pilgrims test the Pedra de Abalar to see if it still rocks, a sign said to bring good fortune, and pass beneath the Pedra dos Cadris nine times to cure ailments of the kidneys and back. Unlike the structured rituals in Santiago, these practices along the Finisterre route feel more personal and spontaneous, shaped by the individual pilgrim’s need for closure, reflection or renewal at the edge of the world.
Folklore, Legends & Mythology
Sea Monsters & The Edge of the World
Classical and medieval belief placed this coastline at the edge of the known world, a realm of myth, danger and imagined sea creatures. Ancient maps marked these waters with warnings of serpents and leviathans that would drag ships into the abyss. The violent Atlantic storms and countless shipwrecks along the Costa da Morte only reinforced these fears, giving the coastline its ominous name and a reputation as a place where the natural world became unpredictable and hostile.
O Urco – The Black Dog of Death
Local folklore speaks of O Urco, a spectral black dog said to emerge on fog-laden nights as an omen of death. The creature is described as enormous, with glowing eyes and silent footsteps, appearing to those who are about to die or to families who will soon lose a loved one. Fishermen and coastal villagers would dread encountering the beast on lonely paths, believing its appearance meant the sea would soon claim another victim.
The Santa Compaña – Procession of the Dead
The Santa Compaña is one of Galicia’s most feared supernatural phenomena, a ghostly procession of souls wandering the night roads. Led by a living person forced to carry a cross or lantern, the procession is followed by hooded figures bearing candles and the smell of wax and earth. Those who encounter the Santa Compaña must lie face down on the ground and avoid looking at the procession, or risk being chosen to lead it themselves. The only escape is to draw a circle around yourself or pass the burden to another unwitting soul. Villages along the Camino Finisterre still speak of sightings near crossroads and old churches, particularly on misty nights when the boundary between worlds grows thin.
Mouras – Enchanted Women of the Springs
Mouras are beautiful enchanted women, said to be Moorish princesses or pre-Christian spirits, who guard hidden treasures in caves, springs and ancient ruins. They appear at dawn or dusk combing their long golden hair, sometimes offering riches to those brave or clever enough to break their curse. However, those who fail or show greed are doomed to misfortune. Many springs and wells along the route are associated with moura legends, and some pilgrims still leave small offerings at these sites, blending Christian devotion with older, deeper traditions.
Souls of the Drowned & Crossroads Witches
The treacherous waters of the Costa da Morte have claimed countless lives, and local belief holds that the souls of drowned sailors and fishermen linger in the mist, calling out warnings or luring the living toward danger. On foggy nights, voices are heard from the cliffs and beaches where no one stands. Meanwhile, rural crossroads are known as gathering places for witches, meigas and spirits. Travelers would avoid certain intersections after dark, and even today some older Galicians will spit or make the sign of the cross when passing these liminal spaces where the living world meets the realm of magic and the dead.
The Camino Finisterre Pop Culture
Film and TV
The Way
While this 2010 film starring Martin Sheen focuses primarily on the Camino Francés, it touches on the continuation to Finisterre and the symbolic importance of reaching the ocean. The film’s themes of completion and transformation resonate strongly with the Finisterre experience.

Walking the Camino: Six Ways to Santiago
This 2013 documentary directed by Lydia B. Smith follows several pilgrims on different Camino routes, including segments on the journey to Finisterre. It captures the reflective and transformative nature of walking to the “end of the world.”
Books
A Pilgrimage to Finisterre by Patrick Keefe
While primarily about the journey to Santiago, this book includes reflections on the continuation to Finisterre and Muxía, emphasizing the spiritual significance of reaching the Atlantic coast.
Food and Drink
Pulpo a la Gallega (Galician Octopus)
This traditional Galician dish is a must-try along the Camino Finisterre. Octopus is boiled and served with olive oil, paprika, and coarse salt. Finisterre and Muxía are excellent places to sample this local specialty prepared with fresh Atlantic octopus.
Percebes (Goose Barnacles)
These unusual shellfish are considered a delicacy in Galicia. Harvested from dangerous coastal rocks, they’re expensive but offer a unique taste of the sea. The Costa da Morte is famous for its percebes.
Vieiras (Scallops)
Scallops, the symbol of the Camino, are caught fresh in Galician waters and prepared in various ways. The most traditional preparation is vieiras al horno (baked scallops with breadcrumbs and seasonings).
Ribeiro Wine
This light, slightly sparkling white wine from the nearby Ribeiro region pairs perfectly with seafood. It’s crisp, refreshing, and widely available in restaurants along the route.
Albariño Wine
Galicia’s most famous white wine, Albariño comes from the Rías Baixas region. Its citrus notes and high acidity make it an ideal companion to the rich seafood dishes of the coast.
Tarta de Santiago
This traditional almond cake, dusted with powdered sugar in the shape of the Cross of Santiago, is a sweet way to celebrate completing your pilgrimage. It’s available throughout Galicia but tastes especially meaningful when enjoyed at journey’s end.
Is the Camino Finisterre Vegan Friendly?
While Galician cuisine is heavily focused on seafood and meat, vegan options are increasingly available, especially in larger towns. Santiago de Compostela has several vegan and vegetarian restaurants. Smaller villages may have more limited options, so it’s advisable to communicate dietary requirements in advance with accommodations.
Traditional Galician vegetable dishes include pimientos de Padrón (small green peppers), ensalada mixta (mixed salad), and tortilla de patatas (though this contains eggs). Most restaurants can prepare salads and vegetable dishes upon request.
We recommend bringing certain items such as plant-based milk, nut butters, or protein powders if you have specific dietary needs, as rural areas may have limited specialized products.
In addition, the following apps show restaurants which offer vegetarian and/or vegan opions:
Other Pilgrim Trails
There are various other pilgrim trails available to you once you have completed the Camino Finisterre. Here are some other pilgrim trails we offer which form the larger Camino de Santiago walking route network:
- The Camino Francés
- The Camino Portugués (Traditional Route)
- The Camino Portugués (Coastal Route)
- The Camino Primitivo
- The Kerry Camino
- St Kevin’s Way & Glendalough
Camino Finisterre Tips and FAQs
Probably one of the most common questions asked when walking the Camino Finistere or any trail for that matter is – what will I pack?
Once you have fully booked your Hillwalk Tours hiking holiday, you will receive a detailed ‘recommended equipment’ list inside your Walking Pack. For those who are still unsure of what to bring, here are some of the things we advise you bring with you along the Beara Way:
– Waterproof Clothing
– Fleece and other warm clothing
– Base Layer
– Light, comfortable Trousers
– Wicking Socks
– Suitable Hiking Boots
– Backpack/Rucksack
– Hat and Gloves
– First Aid Kit and Foil Blanket
– Whistle and Torch
– Insect Repellent
– Mobile Phone
– Plug Adapter/Converter
For more on what to pack – check out these packing musts.
Dogs are generally allowed on the Camino Finisterre and should be kept on a short lead. However, many accommodations do not accept pets. It’s important to note that coastal weather can be harsh for animals, and beaches may have restrictions during certain seasons. Due to most accommodations not accepting pets, it is not possible to bring pets on a Hillwalk Tours hiking holiday.
The Camino Finisterre is generally considered a safe route. The main hazards are weather-related—coastal sections can be exposed to strong winds and Atlantic storms. Always check weather forecasts, particularly before coastal sections. The route is well-traveled enough that you’re unlikely to feel isolated.
If you experience any difficulty or emergency, phone 112 for emergency services. Those who have booked with Hillwalk Tours receive 24/7 on-call support throughout their journey.
Yes, the Camino Finisterre is suitable and popular for solo hikers. The route is well-marked and regularly walked. However, due to limited availability of single rooms along the trail, booking early is recommended, and single supplement charges may apply.
We believe that the beauty of the Irish countryside should be enjoyed by everyone. With this in mind, we designed our hiking tours to cater for practically all levels of fitness. Our range of ‘Gentle’, ‘Moderate’ and ‘Challenging’ hikes in all regions allows you to decide how far you wish to walk each day and the pace you set. So, whether you are a novice walker or an experienced hiker, we always have a tour to suit you.
Yes, the Camino Finisterre can be cycled, though some sections are more suitable for mountain bikes than road bikes. The coastal paths can be challenging for cycling.
The Camino Finisterre can be walked year-round if you’re prepared for winter conditions.1 February – 31 October
Our 7-Day tours include 6 nights of accommodation – specifically the first 6 nights on your hiking tour. Your tour finishes on the seventh day when you check out of your last accommodation. These 7-Day tours include 5 days of hiking. The first and last days of all our hiking tours are travel days used to transfer to/from the town where your hike will begin/end. If you would like to hike for 7 days, simply select one of our 9-Day tours.
Camino Finisterre Photo Gallery








Hillwalk Tours
About Us
Hillwalk Tours is an award-winning walking tour operator which specialise in self-guided walking holidays in Ireland, Scotland, England, Wales and along the Camino de Santiago in Spain. Our goal is to create happy experiences for all of our customers, suppliers & staff.
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Leave No Trace
We like to walk in nature and since you are reading this – we believe you do too! It is important to ensure that our impact on the environment is limited so that hikers can enjoy the same view after us. The rule applies: when you leave, make sure that nature looks the same as when you arrived or simply put “leave no trace.” As more and more people take to the great outdoors, our collective mark on the environment increases.
What does this mean in reality? Of course, do not leave any rubbish or waste behind. Do not collect stones, flowers, or other “souvenirs”. Don’t carve your name on a tree or break branches… I think you get the drift. It is imperative for walkers to play their part in making sure litter, damage to vegetation and all forms of pollution are limited.
Noise can also be a form of pollution. Whoever walks through a forest talking and laughing loudly, for example, ruins the peace and quiet of other walkers, who can no longer hear the birds. The same goes for cell phones that suddenly start ringing. Keep the volume down and respect your surroundings. Ultimately, the point is to ensure that as many people as possible can enjoy walking through nature. So that applies to you, but also to those who tread the path after you.
Hillwalk Tours proudly supports sustainable tourism and loves the countryside as it is – wild, peaceful and clean. We are proud to support the “Leave No Trace” initiative that aims to preserve the natural beauty of each nations countryside where we offer hiking holidays. We try to create happy experiences for our accommodation too, and the restaurants, shops and taxi companies that serve our walkers. These are often small businesses located in isolated areas that have been left behind by urban migration and a lack of investment in rural regions. Their warm hospitality and friendly welcomes epitomise the magic of a Hillwalk Tour and we’re dedicated to helping keep these rural communities alive.
The Benefits of Hiking
In recent years, walking and hiking outdoors has been widely reported to have numerous physical and mental health benefits. The following are examples of some of these benefits:
Improve strength and fitness
- Weight loss
- Muscle gain
- Improve metabolism
- Improve digestion
- Better quality sleep
- Increase in Vitamin D
- Improve discipline
- Sense of achievement
- Living in the present moment
Hiking Equipment List
For a more in-depth list of recommended hiking equipment list, click here.
Make A Booking
Are you ready for your Camino Finisterre adventure? Get started by simply filling out the booking form below!
